When traditional houses are reborn it is called "revival" architecture. People may be looking for something from the past as well as a way to display their success and affluence. Spanish Revival architecture began in the early 1900's and evolved from an earlier Mission style. Its symbolic beginning was the 1915 Panama California Exposition in San Diego, California. Bertram Goodhue was appointed chief architect and his choice of a vernacular style was considered a great success.

Vernacular architectures are shaped by materials and technology, climate, economics, beliefs and history. The architecture of early Spanish colonists in Mexico built on the foundation of a complex and rich Baroque heritage in Europe. The built environment in Spain was also influenced by centuries of Moorish occupation "the exotic and far away." They left lasting monuments such as the Alhambra Palace in Granada and this romantic spirit was articulated by Washington Irving in his book "Tales of the Alhambra."

American movies of the 1920's spread this romantic ideal as Spanish Revival was adapted for the sets of numerous silent films. Latin lover, Rudolph Valentino, and other movie stars, producers and directors chose the style for their own houses. The list includes Mary Pickford, Charlie Chaplin and Samuel Goldwyn. Today Spanish Revival (or Mediterranean style) is attractive for many of the same reasons. It includes porch-lined courtyards, lush planting, moving water with colour and texture that creates an exciting outdoor life. This evocative and relaxing style symbolizes a liberation from rigid social mores.

In Spanish Revival architecture sunlight plays across large stucco surfaces and the low pitched terra-cotta tile roofs seem to be part of the natural environment. The one distinguishing architectural feature that stands out above all others in Mediterranean countries is probably the wall. In traditional buildings it is often used as an anonymous frontal facade. Something that will not draw attention to the owner's circumstances. Features such as rich wooden doors and windows protected by decorative iron grilles create an interesting contrast. Colourful ceramic tiles or cut stone are used for the same reason.


NEWS: Centenary of the 1915 Panama California Exposition
The City of San Diego is considering plans to refurbish some of the remaining buildings from the 1915 and 1935 expositions. A controversial proposal is the re-installation of Panama Plaza, which is the size of a parade ground.
See the Save our Heritage Organisation (Cabrillo Bridge) web site for more information.
Also see the Plaza de Panama Project web site